Herbal Medicine for Bloating & Abdominal Distension
Bloating is one of the most common digestive complaints in the UK, yet it is often dismissed or inadequately treated. Herbal medicine identifies and addresses the root causes of bloating — dysbiosis, SIBO, food intolerances, impaired digestion and gut motility issues — for lasting relief.
Why Are You Bloated?
Bloating is typically caused by excess gas production from dysbiosis or SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), impaired carbohydrate digestion, food intolerances (gluten, lactose, FODMAPs), reduced digestive enzyme secretion, constipation, or hormonal fluctuations. Identifying the specific cause is essential for effective treatment.
How Herbal Medicine Relieves Bloating
Carminative Herbs
Aromatic herbs dispel trapped gas, relax gut spasm and reduce the discomfort of bloating.
Digestive Bitters
Bitter herbs stimulate digestive enzymes and bile, improving carbohydrate and fat digestion.
SIBO Treatment
Antimicrobial herbs reduce pathogenic bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.
Gut Motility
Prokinetic herbs improve gut transit time, preventing the gas accumulation that causes bloating.
Key Herbs Used
- Peppermint (Mentha piperita) — The most effective carminative herb — relaxes gut spasm and expels trapped gas rapidly.
- Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) — Traditional carminative that reduces gas, bloating and gut spasm after meals.
- Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus) — Stimulates bile production and improves fat digestion — key for post-meal bloating.
- Oregano Oil (Origanum vulgare) — Potent antimicrobial for SIBO — shown to be as effective as rifaximin in studies.
What to Expect
Bloating Investigation
A thorough assessment to identify whether your bloating is from SIBO, dysbiosis, food intolerance or motility issues.
Targeted Herbal Protocol
A bespoke formula addressing your specific bloating mechanism.
FODMAP & Food Guidance
Targeted dietary advice to identify and reduce bloating triggers.
Long-term Gut Health
A programme to restore microbiome balance and prevent recurrence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a SIBO test?
A breath test for SIBO can be helpful. Your herbalist will advise whether testing is appropriate.
How quickly does bloating improve?
Carminative herbs provide rapid relief within hours. Root cause treatment takes 4–12 weeks.
Can hormones cause bloating?
Yes — oestrogen dominance, particularly pre-menstrually, is a common cause of cyclical bloating.
Can I keep eating normally during treatment?
Dietary modifications are usually recommended alongside herbal treatment for best results.
References
- Suares NC & Ford AC (2011). Systematic review: the effects of fibre in the management of chronic idiopathic constipation. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 33(8), 895–901.
- Chedid V et al. (2014). Herbal therapy is equivalent to rifaximin for the treatment of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Global Advances in Health and Medicine, 3(3), 16–24.
Beat the Bloat Naturally
Book a digestive health consultation with one of our specialist herbalists today.
Book a Free Discovery CallDisclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Herbal medicine should not replace treatment recommended by a qualified medical professional. Always consult your GP before making changes to your medication or treatment plan. The practitioners at Paean Therapy are registered with the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH).
